Shillong, Nov 1: The Khooid Ya ka Wah Myntdu (KYM), an organisation formed to fight for restoration of the Myntdu River, drew the attention of authorities of massive siltation in the Mupiah reservoir dam which could pose severe water contamination risks.
According to the organisation, concerned citizens have reported that siltation was observed in the stretch of the Myntdu River at the dam.
KYM President Khroo L Pariat in a letter to West Jaiñtia Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhinav Kumar Singh said an inspection was carried out by the organisation wherein it observed that the cause of siltation was due to unregulated construction, sand, and mud mining.
Pariat said the reservoir supplies drinking water to thousands of households in Jowai town and if indiscriminate dumping continues, it poses severe water contamination risks and destruction of natural habitats, thereby threatening both human and animal life in the river and its surroundings.
He said that the activities have led to an increase in the turbidity of the water, which is detrimental to the health of consumers, particularly those belonging to marginalised communities who solely depend on drinking water from public taps of the PHE department and cannot afford private water supply.
“Jowai town may face an imminent water shortage in the upcoming dry season,” he added.
Pariat reminded the Deputy Commissioner that these activities are in violation of the Water Act and existing orders issued by the DC’s office.
The KYM also requested written information on expenses made from a donation of Rs 5 lakh to the West Jaintia Hills District Environment Protection & Restoration Fund meant for the protection and restoration of the Myntdu River.
